Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When is the best time to study abroad?

A. You can go at any time, however most programs require that you have at least sophomore standing. We want you to stay on campus long enough to feel a part of BSU. But after that you are free to explore the world. And remember, you can study abroad more than once! Consider testing the waters early on with a short summer field study, then going back for a semester or year-long program. In addition, many overseas transcripts take 1-2 months to be returned to the U.S. As a result, it is unlikely you will be able to study abroad during your last undergraduate semester.

Q. I don't speak another language. Am I limited to Englandand Australia?

A. Although we have many programs in non-English speaking countries, most of our programs offer coursework in English.

Q. Is study abroad expensive?

A. We offer a wide variety of programs. Some programs are more expensive than others, but when you add all costs, many are similar to the same cost as a semester here at Ball State. Keep in mind that we have several scholarships available for study abroad, and you can apply most other scholarships, grants, or loans you receive to the cost of the program. If you are flexible about your program options and locations, we will work to find a program that fits your budget.

Q. Is it safe to go overseas? What about war, SARS, terrorism, and other dangers?

A. Every day we take risks, and no one can guarantee safety, but at Ball State we make every effort to provide study abroad programs that are safe. We keep abreast of Department of State Travel Advisories, remain in contact with site directors, and prepare students with orientation programs specific to their host country.

Q. Will I be able to graduate on time if I study abroad?

A. With a little bit of planning most students are able to stay right on track. Students can usually find courses in their major or minor overseas, allowing them to earn credits toward graduation while experiencing their discipline from a new perspective. We also have programs that allow you to get credit for core classes.

Q. My major is very intense, with all of the classes planned out for me. Can I still study abroad?

A. For students who are locked in to a very rigid program, summer programs can be a good alternative to a semester away. These programs are usually very inexpensive, and allow you to earn up to 6 credits. Also keep up to date on the programs offered within your department, sometimes faculty members design special field studies for students within a particular major.

Q. How do I know the credits will transfer?

All academic credit must be approved by the BSU department awarding the credit prior to your departure. To find out how the credits would transfer you will need to have your course descriptions/course syllabi reviewed by these departments. We provide a Request for Study Abroad Credit sheet for you to secure signatures prior to your departure. This form is a type of contract for credit transfer. Field studies are pre-approved and listed in terms of BSU credits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When is the best time to study abroad?

A. Although junior year has been historically popular you can study abroad just about any time. Most programs require that you have at least sophomore standing. We want you to stay on campus long enough to feel a part of Ball State. But after that you are free to explore the world. Just keep in mind that study abroad your final semester is normally not possible due to the delay in transcripts and credits. Check with your advisor well in advance if you are interested in applying to go your final year.

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Q. I don't speak another language. Am I limited to just Englandand Australia?

A. We have many programs, even those in non-English speaking countries, where the classes are taught in English... Italy, Austria, Greece, Costa Rica to name just a few.

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Q. How much will study abroad cost?

A. We offer a wide variety of programs. Some programs are more expensive than others, but many are not much more than a semester here at Ball State. Program type, duration study, and transportation costs all affect the cost. Keep in mind that we have several scholarships available for study abroad, and you can apply many other scholarships, grants, and loans you receive to the cost of a Ball State program.

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Q. Is it safe to go overseas?

A. Every day we take risks, and no one can guarantee safety. We make every effort to sponsor study abroad programs that give students the information they need to keep themselves as safe as possible. We keep abreast of Department of State Travel Advisories and do not operate programs in countries with Travel Warnings. We also remain in contact with site directors, and prepare students with orientation programs before they go.

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Q. Will I be able to graduate on time if I study abroad?

A. With careful planning and the right program most students are able to stay right on track. Students can usually find courses in their major or minor overseas, allowing them to earn credits toward graduation while experiencing their discipline from a new perspective. We also have programs that allow you to get credit for core classes. Early planning and careful research is critical. Not all study sites offer all subjects.

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Q. My major is very structured, with all of the classes planned out for me. Can I still study abroad?

A. For students in this situation, summer programs can be a good alternative to a semester away. These programs typically offer up to 6 credits. Make sure to keep up to date on the programs offered within your academic department. Sometimes faculty members design special field studies for students within that major.

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Q. How do I know the credits will transfer?

A. All academic credit must be approved by the Ball State department awarding the credit prior to your departure. To find out how the credits would apply you will need to have your course descriptions/course syllabi reviewed by these departments in advance of participation. We provide a Request for Study Abroad Credit sheet for you to secure signatures prior to your departure. This form is a type of contract for credit transfer. Field studies and Center Programs are already approved for Ball State credit.